In the last few years:
One friend has admitted he's an alcoholic and totally cut out the booze. Wonderful news and good for him. Unfortunately at the same time he's discovered religion, started condemning everyone around him and posting scripture on FB. In the past he was fun, hilarious and cheeky. Now he criticises people for swearing.
Another friend used to love his roll-ups and a pint. He's now Buddhist, has completely given up smoking (good) and all alcohol and become very pious and uptight.
Since having children a former fun loving friend has become maniacal about 'screen time' and organic veg boxes. When they visit she tuts at the processed snacks my children sometimes eat (biscuits) and asks if everything is organic (nope).
Countless friends who are training for marathons, triathlons and cutting out gluten/lactose/etc or have suddenly become vegetarian/vegan/macrobiotic/a pain to cook for.
What's happening?? All of these people are in their 40s and these changes seem to go against their personalities. Is it a middle age thing? I'm 43. Has it just not kicked in with me yet? I can understand improving health by stopping smoking, increasing exercise or cutting out alcohol totally (in the case of the alcoholic) but I don't get the judgey, sanctimonious intensity of their attitudes. These were all fun, laid back people. Are they going through a phase and will come out the other side their old, lovely selves or should I be examining my silly, sluttish ways and signing up for a marathon & veg box?